KATHMANDU, Dec 19: President Bidya Devi Bhandari has expressed the belief that the Bibah Panchami festival, a cultural heritage of the Mithila region, has helped further strengthen the good will and tolerance existing in society by generating the sense of national unity among all Nepalis. The Nepali society is the centre of tolerance and civilization since historical times, she said.

The Head of State said this in a message of best wishes she gave on the occasion of the Bibah Panchami festival. On the occasion, President Bhandari has also extended best wishes to all the Nepali sisters and brothers.

The Bibah Panchami festival commemorates the special day of the wedding of goddess Sita and lord Ram during the Treta Yuga.

The President has also reminded one and all to celebrate the festival by observing the health safety guidelines to prevent further spread of COVID-19 pandemic as there is increased social interaction during the festival time.

She also wished that the festival inspired all to further consolidate the sense of national unity and to preserve and promote the unique culture by maintaining unity amid the nation's social and cultural diversity.

The Bibah Panchami festival, which is celebrated in the Mithila region from the ancient period, has cultural and historical significance. The Janaki Temple located in Janakpurdham, the capital of ancient kingdom of Mithila region, is the main centre of celebration of this festival. 

As such, the evening prayers are offered at the religious ponds in Janakpur and the sagas described in the Ramayana religious epic are recited on this day. Similarly, religious pageantry including dance and singing of hymns is held with the accompaniment of music. There is also a tradition to enact ritualistic marriage between Ram and Sita along with the marriage procession.

(With inputs from RSS) 

 
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